How Juvenile Records Can Impact a Child’s Future

Many parents assume that juvenile offenses automatically disappear with time. After all, the justice system for minors is supposed to focus on rehabilitation rather than punishment. But in reality, a juvenile record can persist and become a barrier well into adulthood. Even minor offenses can create problems when applying for jobs, seeking scholarships, renting an apartment, or enlisting in the military. 

Fortunately, Colorado law provides a legal mechanism for most young people to seal their juvenile criminal records. This can be a critical step in protecting your child’s future and allowing them to move forward without the stigma of a past mistake hanging over their head.

What It Means to Seal a Juvenile Record in Colorado

When a juvenile record is sealed, it is hidden from most public access. That means landlords, employers, universities, and most background checks will not be able to see the sealed case. While certain government agencies and law enforcement may still have access in specific circumstances, the individual can legally state that they have no criminal record in most settings. It’s important to understand that sealing is not the same as expungement, which typically erases records entirely. 

Colorado does not expunge juvenile records in the way some other states do. Instead, sealing effectively locks the record from public view, providing many of the same benefits without complete erasure. Sealing a record can be essential for giving a young person a fresh start, especially after they’ve completed all court-ordered obligations and shown a commitment to making better choices.

Which Juvenile Offenses Can Be Sealed in Colorado?

The good news is that most juvenile offenses in Colorado are eligible for sealing. If your child was arrested, charged, or adjudicated (the juvenile court’s equivalent of a conviction), there's a strong chance they qualify to have their record sealed, especially if they’ve successfully completed their sentence or diversion program. Here are some of the situations in which juvenile records are usually eligible:

• The charges were dismissed or the child was found not guilty
• The offense was a misdemeanor or petty offense, including shoplifting or simple drug possession
• The youth completed a diversion or deferred adjudication program
• At least one year has passed since the end of the case with no new legal issues
• The youth has paid all restitution and completed any required counseling or community service

It’s worth noting that even some felony offenses can be sealed, provided they were not violent or sexual in nature and the child meets the other conditions set by the court. Our juvenile criminal defense attorneys regularly help families assess eligibility and take the proper steps to begin the sealing process.

Which Juvenile Offenses Cannot Be Sealed?

While Colorado law allows many juvenile records to be sealed, some offenses are excluded due to their severity or potential risk to public safety. Understanding which crimes fall into this category is essential before filing a petition. Juvenile cases that are generally not eligible for sealing include:

• Class 1 and Class 2 felony offenses, such as murder or kidnapping
• Sexual offenses that require the individual to register as a sex offender
• Habitual juvenile offender adjudications involving multiple violent felonies
• Any case where the minor was tried as an adult and convicted

There are also some technical reasons a case may be denied sealing, such as unpaid restitution or the filing of the petition too soon. That’s why timing, documentation, and legal support are crucial. Even if a case appears ineligible at first glance, we always encourage parents to have the record reviewed by an attorney. In some situations, there may be exceptions or changes in status that make sealing possible.

The Process for Sealing a Juvenile Record in Colorado

Sealing a juvenile record is a formal legal process that involves several steps. Missing a deadline, submitting incomplete forms, or filing in the wrong jurisdiction can result in unnecessary delays or even a denial. The process generally includes:

1. Reviewing eligibility: An attorney can confirm whether the record qualifies under Colorado law.
2. Waiting the required period: Many cases require a one-year waiting period after the case concludes with no further offenses.
3. Filing a petition: This must be submitted to the same court that handled the original case and should include details such as the case number, date of adjudication, and any proof of sentence completion.
4. Court review: In some cases, the judge may schedule a hearing to determine whether sealing the record is in the best interest of the youth and the community.
5. Sealing order issued: If approved, the court sends the order to law enforcement agencies, the court clerk, and other entities to restrict access to the record.

The more serious the offense, the more important it is to provide strong documentation showing rehabilitation, such as school performance, work history, and character references.

Contact Datz Law Firm for Questions About Sealing a Juvenile Record in Colorado

Even if your child has stayed out of trouble since their case, that juvenile record can still pop up when they least expect it. Employers, landlords, and licensing agencies may hold that record against them, even if the offense occurred years ago. College admissions offices and financial aid programs often ask about criminal history on applications. Sealing the record allows your child to move forward without having to constantly explain a mistake made as a teenager. It opens the door to better opportunities and gives them the confidence to pursue their goals without fear of being judged for something that happened years ago.

At Datz Law Firm, we understand how important your child’s future is. If you’re unsure whether your child’s record can be sealed, we can help you find out. If they qualify, we’ll guide you through every step of the process. Don’t let a past mistake define what comes next. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with our juvenile defense team.